How Much Does a Yard of Compost Cost? (2023 Prices)

How Much Is a Yard of Compost?

Compost is a valuable soil amendment that can improve the health of your garden and lawn. It’s made from organic materials like food scraps, leaves, and grass clippings that have been decomposed by microorganisms. Composting is a great way to recycle your waste and reduce your environmental impact.

But how much does a yard of compost cost? The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of compost you buy, where you live, and the time of year.

In this article, we’ll discuss the average cost of a yard of compost, as well as factors that can affect the price. We’ll also provide tips on how to find the best compost for your needs and budget.

What is Compost?

Type of Compost Price per Yard Notes
Organic Compost $20-$30 Made from food scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials.
Manure Compost $10-$20 Made from animal manure, straw, and other organic materials.
Synthetic Compost $5-$10 Made from inorganic materials, such as wood chips and sawdust.

Compost is a mixture of organic matter that has been decomposed by microorganisms. It is a valuable soil amendment that can improve the fertility, structure, and water-holding capacity of soil. Compost can also help to reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

What is a yard of compost?

A yard of compost is equal to 3 feet by 3 feet by 3 feet, or 27 cubic feet. This is a large amount of compost, and it is typically used for landscaping projects or to improve the soil in a large garden.

How much does a yard of compost cost?

The cost of compost varies depending on the source, quality, and quantity. Compost can be purchased in bulk from farms and garden centers, or it can be made at home. The average cost of a yard of compost is between $20 and $50.

Where can I buy compost?

Compost can be purchased from a variety of sources, including:

  • Farms and garden centers: Many farms and garden centers sell compost in bulk. The cost of compost will vary depending on the farm or garden center, but it is typically between $20 and $50 per yard.
  • Online retailers: Some online retailers sell compost in bulk. The cost of compost will vary depending on the retailer, but it is typically between $20 and $50 per yard.
  • Compost makers: Some people make their own compost at home. This is a great way to save money, and it is also a good way to recycle organic waste.

How to make compost at home

If you want to save money on compost, you can make your own compost at home. This is a relatively simple process, and it does not require a lot of time or effort.

To make compost at home, you will need the following materials:

  • Organic materials: You can use a variety of organic materials to make compost, including food scraps, yard waste, and leaves.
  • A compost bin or pile: You can use a compost bin or pile to hold your compost materials. If you are using a bin, make sure that it has holes in the bottom to allow drainage.
  • Water: You will need to water your compost pile regularly to keep it moist.
  • Time: It takes about 3-6 months for compost to decompose completely.

To make compost, simply add your organic materials to the compost bin or pile. Water the pile regularly, and turn it every few weeks to help the materials decompose. Once the compost is finished decomposing, you can use it to improve the soil in your garden.

Compost is a valuable soil amendment that can improve the fertility, structure, and water-holding capacity of soil. It can also help to reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. If you are looking for a way to improve the soil in your garden, compost is a great option.

How Much Is a Yard of Compost?

The price of a yard of compost can vary depending on the type of compost, the source of the compost, and the location of the seller. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 per yard of compost.

Here is a breakdown of the factors that can affect the price of compost:

  • Type of compost: Compost can be made from a variety of materials, including food scraps, yard waste, and manure. The type of compost you choose will affect the price. For example, compost made from food scraps is typically more expensive than compost made from yard waste.
  • Source of the compost: Compost can be purchased from a variety of sources, including garden centers, home improvement stores, and online retailers. The source of the compost can also affect the price. For example, compost that is produced locally is typically less expensive than compost that is shipped in from a long distance.
  • Location of the seller: The price of compost can vary depending on the location of the seller. For example, compost is typically more expensive in urban areas than in rural areas.

Here are some tips for finding the best price on compost:

  • Shop around and compare prices from different sellers.
  • Look for sales and discounts.
  • Consider purchasing compost in bulk.
  • If you are able to, compost your own food scraps and yard waste.

How to Make Compost

Composting is a great way to recycle organic materials and create a nutrient-rich soil amendment for your garden. Composting is also a relatively simple process that can be done at home with a few basic materials.

Here are the steps on how to make compost:

1. Gather your materials. You will need a compost pile or bin, a source of organic materials (such as food scraps, yard waste, and manure), and a way to turn the compost pile.
2. Build your compost pile. Start by layering your materials in a 3- to 4-foot-high pile. The layers should alternate between green materials (such as food scraps and grass clippings) and brown materials (such as leaves and straw).
3. Turn the compost pile regularly. Turning the compost pile helps to aerate the materials and speed up the composting process. You should turn the pile once a week or every other week.
4. Wait for the compost to mature. The composting process can take anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the conditions. Once the compost is finished, it will have a dark, crumbly texture and a pleasant earthy smell.

Here are some tips for making compost:

  • Use a variety of materials in your compost pile. This will help to create a balanced compost that is rich in nutrients.
  • Keep your compost pile moist, but not wet. A dry compost pile will not decompose properly, and a wet compost pile may become anaerobic and smelly.
  • Turn your compost pile regularly. This will help to aerate the materials and speed up the composting process.
  • Be patient. The composting process can take anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on the conditions.

Benefits of Compost

Compost has many benefits for gardens, lawns, and flower beds. Compost can:

  • Improve soil structure and drainage.
  • Increase water retention.
  • Provide nutrients to plants.
  • Help to suppress weeds.
  • Attract beneficial insects.
  • Reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Compost is a valuable asset for any gardener. It can help to improve the health of your garden and make it more productive.

How to Use Compost

Compost can be used to improve the soil in gardens, lawns, and flower beds. It can also be used to fertilize plants, improve drainage, and suppress weeds.

Here are some tips for using compost:

  • Add compost to the soil at any time of year, but it is best to apply it in the fall or spring.
  • Work the compost into the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.
  • Apply compost at a rate of 2 to 4 cubic yards per 1,000 square feet.
  • Water the compost after applying it to the soil.

Compost can be used in a variety of ways, including:

  • Adding it to the soil as a fertilizer.
  • Using it as a mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
  • Making compost tea to fertilize plants.
  • Adding it to potting soil to improve drainage and nutrient content.

Compost is a versatile and beneficial material that can be used to improve the health of your garden. By following these tips,

How much is a yard of compost?

The price of a yard of compost varies depending on the type of compost, the source of the compost, and the location of the purchase. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50 per yard of compost.

What are the different types of compost?

There are two main types of compost:

  • Organic compost is made from plant materials, such as leaves, grass clippings, and food scraps. It is typically dark brown in color and has a crumbly texture.
  • Inorganic compost is made from non-organic materials, such as wood chips, sawdust, and shredded paper. It is typically light brown in color and has a coarse texture.

What is the best type of compost for my garden?

The best type of compost for your garden depends on the plants you are growing and the soil conditions in your area. In general, organic compost is a good choice for most gardens. However, if you have heavy clay soil, you may want to add some inorganic compost to help improve drainage.

How much compost do I need for my garden?

The amount of compost you need for your garden depends on the size of the garden and the type of plants you are growing. In general, you will need about 2 cubic feet of compost per 100 square feet of garden space.

How do I apply compost to my garden?

The best time to apply compost to your garden is in the fall or spring. To apply compost, spread it evenly over the surface of the soil and then rake it in. You can also incorporate compost into the soil by digging it in.

How do I store compost?

If you are not going to use all of your compost right away, you can store it in a covered pile or in a compost bin. Make sure to keep the compost moist and aerated to prevent it from becoming anaerobic.

What are the benefits of using compost?

Compost has many benefits for gardens, including:

  • improving soil quality
  • increasing water retention
  • reducing erosion
  • providing nutrients to plants
  • attracting beneficial insects
  • repelling pests

Where can I buy compost?

You can buy compost from a variety of sources, including:

  • garden centers
  • nurseries
  • home improvement stores
  • online retailers

You can also find free compost from some community gardens and municipal recycling programs.

the price of a yard of compost can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of compost, the source of the materials, and the location where it is purchased. However, the average cost of a yard of compost is between $20 and $40. By understanding the different factors that affect the price of compost, you can make an informed decision about the best type of compost for your needs and budget.

Here are some key takeaways from this article:

  • The price of a yard of compost can vary depending on the type of compost, the source of the materials, and the location where it is purchased.
  • The average cost of a yard of compost is between $20 and $40.
  • Compost can be made from a variety of materials, including food scraps, yard waste, and manure.
  • Compost is a valuable resource that can improve soil quality, reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, and help to sequester carbon.

By composting, you can help to create a healthier environment for yourself, your community, and the planet.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.